Chairman's Message => Winter 2002

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The Chairman's Message

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Winter 2002

Dear Colleagues,

This is my inaugural column as the new Florida Section Chair. Before looking ahead, it is appropriate to cast an appreciative glance back and pay tribute to Dr. Al Moffett for his three years of tireless effort and unflinching leadership on behalf of Florida obstetricians and gynecologists. The good news for Florida as well as District IV is that Dr. Moffett will continue to be active in the College as the unopposed candidate for District Treasurer. We wish him good health and god speed as he works for the benefit of physicians and patients.

The three most important issues facing obstetricians and gynecologists continue to be professional liability, professional liability, and professional liability. Obstetricians are taking the lead in telling the story that this crisis is resulting in decreased access to care. Aventura Hospital in Miami joined four other facilities that have closed their obstetrical units. In July, seven of the 12 people who met with President Bush before he announced his support for a cap on non-economic damages were obstetricians and their patients. On October 21st, Dr. Bob Yelverton gave an effective slide presentation to the Governor’s Professional Liability Taskforce in Orlando.

On October 31st (trick or treat?) Amy Young joined other specialty society lobbyists and the FMA to strategize. Dr. Jay Trabin is arranging for an obstetrician and a pregnant patient to testify in front of the Taskforce at their next hearing in Miami. You can also help. The ACOG is again requesting that all members respond to a simple two question survey to document the impact of the professional liability crisis on their practice. It is important that you respond to give us meaningful statistics.

We are not fighting this battle alone. Aside from our allies in the FMA, two other powerful groups are joining us in this struggle to enact meaningful tort reform. The Florida Hospital Association is committing significant financial and intellectual resources to mount a public relations campaign. We also have the support of the business community. With a sympathetic Governor and some luck in the November election, we will prevail.

On a different subject, the Florida Section recently hosted a very successful District Meeting at the Key Biscayne Ritz Carlton. By all accounts, the meeting was a great success. Academically, many fine presentations by recognized experts explored cutting edge concepts and controversies. In addition to the many wonderful diversions in the greater Miami area, our guests were entertained by a private killer whale show at Miami Seaquarium and a lavish farewell reception at Villa Viscaya. Next year’s meeting at the San Juan Ritz Carlton, chaired by Dr. Manny Penalver and Dr. Art Comos, promises to be just as exciting. Make plans to attend and experience the legendary hospitality of the Puerto Rican Section.